Finding the best 40L men’s backpacks for travel is the first step to embarking on an adventure. Your backpack will see the world with you, thrown into the back of a jeep through the jungle, your new seat on an overcrowded train. When it comes to choosing the best travel backpack, a 40L backpack is approximately the maximum size of luggage you can take on as a carry-on, so if you are looking to maximize your hand luggage and avoid check-in fees, or don’t want to lose sight of your bag, then a 40L backpack is a fantastic option.
Whether you’re a first-time traveller searching for a reliable pack, an experienced backpacker looking for an upgrade, or someone who needs a specific bag for trekking or city breaks, we’ve got you covered. No matter your plans, a well-designed backpack should fit comfortably. It should distribute weight evenly and be durable enough to handle long-term travel. At Barefoot Backpackers, we know the value of a solid, well-crafted pack that will last for years to come, and we have selected our very best for this guide.
Many backpacks are designed with a unisex fit, but if you are looking for the best backpacks for women specifically, then we have a guide for that, too. These packs are designed with features that prioritize comfort, weight distribution, and practical travel add-ons for travel or trekking. From lightweight backpacks to suitcase-opening backpacks for easy access, here are our top picks from Osprey, North Face, Deuter, and more.
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Save up to 26% on Black Friday 40L backpack deals
Black Friday savings are already rolling out, and as part of our Black Friday for Amazon updates, we’re tracking the best early discounts on 40L backpacks. Here are today’s best deals:
Here are the best early Black Friday 40L backpack deals we’ve found so far:
25% off: Osprey Farpoint 40L Men’s Travel Backpack — Was $184.95, Now $138.75
25% off: Osprey Daylite 40L Carry-On Wheeled Backpack — Was $224.95, Now $167.95
25% off: Osprey Daylite 44L Carry-On Travel Pack — Was $139.95, Now $104.95
25% off: Osprey Farpoint Men’s Wheeled Travel Pack 36L – Was $299.95, Now $225.00
26% off: Thule Aion Backpack 40L — Was $209.95, Now $155.95
25% off: Thule Landmark Backpack 40L — Was $219.95, Now $163.95
20% off: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L – Was $299.95, Now $239.95
The Best 40L Men’s Backpacks at a Glance
- Best Overall 40L Backpack for Men: Osprey Men’s Farpoint 40L Backpack
- Best for Treks: Gregory Men’s Zulu 45L Backpack
- Best for Versatility: Deuter Futura Pro 40 Hiking Backpack
- Best Design Carry-On Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
- Best Compressible Carry On: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
- Best for Duffel Bag and Packpack: Osprey 40L Transporter Duffel and Backpack
- Best Hybrid Carry-On: Osprey Farpoint Wheeled Travel Pack 36L
- Best for Everyday Use: The North Face Surge 31L
- Best for Carry On for Digital Nomads: Tortuga 40L Travel Backpack Pro
The Best 40L Men’s Backpacks for Travel and Treks
If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel backpack, the Osprey Farpoint 40 is a fantastic choice. Osprey is the gold standard for quality backpacks. All seasoned travellers know you mean business when you have one of these. Built to last, this pack has a lifetime guarantee, ensuring it will be with you for years.
Ideal for minimalist or a shorter term trip, this pack has a 40L capacity. It’s perfect for trips where you want to pack light but still have room for all the essentials. The suitcase-style opening makes it easy to access your belongings, while the padded laptop sleeve keeps your tech safe. If you prefer to keep your backpack as carry-on luggage, this bag is designed to meet most airline size restrictions.
We really love the stowaway harness system, which allows you to zip away the straps for a sleeker, more compact shape when checking in your bag.
Key Specs:
Adjustable AirScape Backpanel
Padded laptop compartment Lockable zippers for security
Stowaway harness and hip belt
Meets carry-on size requirements
For those who love hiking and trekking, the Gregory Zulu Backpack is a top-tier option. Designed with dynamic suspension and ventilated padding, this pack provides maximum airflow to keep you cool on long hikes. It’s lightweight yet built for durability, with a highly adjustable torso length to ensure a perfect fit. The front stretch pocket is perfect for stashing quick-access items like a rain jacket or snacks when your Snickers moment kicks in.
If you’re heading off on multi-day treks or rugged trails, this backpack delivers top comfort and performance and from a brand like Gregory, you know it will stand the test of time.
Key Specs:
Ventilated FreeFloat dynamic suspension
Multiple storage compartments
Ergonomic hip belt with pockets
Integrated rain cover
The Deuter Futura Pro 40 is a versatile, high-performance trekking backpack that excels in both comfort and durability. With ergonomic shoulder straps, a ventilated back panel to cool you down when you get sweaty, and multiple compartments, it’s designed for outdoor explorers who need both organization and comfort on the go. We love that it is hydration system compatible too. This backpack is ideal for hiking, mountaineering, or long-distance travel, making it one of the best men’s backpacks for those who need a do-it-all bag.
Key Specs:
AirComfort mesh back system for ventilation
Adjustable straps for a custom fit
Padded hip belt with pockets
Hydration system compatible
The Osprey Transporter 40L is a tough, go-anywhere duffel designed for men who want maximum durability without unnecessary weight. Its weather-resistant build includes a bluesign®-approved recycled polyester shell, dual-sided TPU coating, and a protective overlapping rain flap that shields contents during bad weather. With a stowaway harness, burly hardware, and stiffened body fabric for structure, it carries comfortably whether you’re navigating airports, ski trips, or weekend travel. Inside, mesh pockets help organize clothing and small essentials, while external end pockets give fast access to gear. Eight coated lash points and four reinforced grab handles make this more adaptable than the average duffel. Whether you’re packing boots, gym gear, or travel essentials, the Transporter 40L delivers performance and reliability.
Key specs
Capacity 40L
Material Water-resistant fabric with rain flap
Features Lockable U-zip access, mesh pockets, external end pockets
Carry options Shoulder straps and grab handles
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L stands out for male travelers who want a streamlined, durable bag that handles both urban and outdoor adventures. Its clean, suitcase-style clamshell opening makes packing straightforward, and the interior’s three mesh compartments keep clothing, shoes, and electronics separated. The shoulder straps and hip belt stow away when not needed, letting it function like a sleek carry-on, while the weather-resistant outer shell protects gear on the move. With a fleece-lined 15-inch laptop sleeve, lockable zippers, and thoughtfully placed quick-access pockets, the Allpa balances simplicity with smart functionality. It’s a brilliant option for short trips, everyday commuting, or minimalist one-bag travel.
Key specs
Weight Lightweight and compact
Capacity 35 litres
Design Suitcase-style with full wrap zip
Laptop sleeve 15-inch padded and fleece lined
Water resistance Water resistant
Extra features Lockable zippers, tuckable straps, 3 grab handles
The Peak Design 45L Travel Backpack is a premium pick for those who want one bag that adapts to every kind of trip. With the ability to compress to 35L or expand to 45L, it works equally well as a compact weekend pack or a full carry-on for longer travel. The bag offers rear, side, and top access, so reaching camera gear, clothing, or tech is seamless. Built with a recycled 400D nylon canvas shell and reinforced bottom, it’s rugged enough for heavy use yet polished enough for business travel. Tuck-away shoulder straps, multiple grab handles, and hidden external straps make this pack exceptionally versatile, ideal for digital nomads, photographers, or frequent flyers who demand organization and durability.
Key specs
Weight 2.05 kg
Capacity Expandable 35–45 litres
Design Rear, side and top access
Material 400D recycled nylon canvas
Water resistance Weatherproof shell
Laptop sleeve Fits 16-inch device
Extra features Tuck-away straps, luggage pass-through, hidden external straps
The Osprey Farpoint Wheeled Travel Pack 36L is a superb hybrid for travelers who want the practicality of a rolling suitcase with the flexibility of a backpack. Smooth wheels and a telescoping handle make airport travel effortless, while the stowable harness and padded hip belt let you switch to backpack mode when the terrain gets rough. The adjustable torso length and ventilated suspension system keep it comfortable, even on long days of city exploration or transit. Inside, a large main compartment, compression straps, and zippered organizer pockets keep everything tidy. Built from bluesign®-approved, 100% recycled high-tenacity nylon, it’s durable and perfect for travelers who want versatility in a carry-on size.
Key specs
Weight 3.0 kg
Capacity 36 litres
Design Convertible wheeled backpack
Material 100% recycled high-tenacity nylon
Water resistance Weather resistant
Extra features Adjustable torso fit, telescopic handle, tuckaway straps, internal compression straps
Fit Unisex
If you need a reliable pack for commuting, travel, and daily use, The North Face Surge delivers excellent organization and comfort in a rugged build. Three spacious zippered compartments, a padded laptop sleeve, and multiple external pockets make it easy to keep gear neatly arranged. The FlexVent suspension system provides ergonomic support for long days, while the removable waist belt and sternum strap add stability during movement. Reflective touches improve safety in low light, and its durable materials hold up well to heavy, everyday use. Whether for office commutes or weekend trips, the Surge is a dependable all-rounder.
Key specs
31-litre capacity
FlexVent suspension system for ergonomic support
Padded laptop sleeve (fits most 14.5” laptops)
Multiple compartments for organisation
Removable waist belt and sternum strap for stability
The Tortuga 40L Travel Backpack Pro is tailor-made for men who want the efficiency of a suitcase with the comfort of a backpack. Its front-loading design provides easy packing, while dedicated laptop and tablet sleeves keep tech protected. Multiple mesh pockets, hip belt pockets, and two water bottle holders make long travel days more organized. Made from waterproof sailcloth with YKK zippers, it’s incredibly durable yet lightweight enough for carry-on travel. The adjustable suspension system and padded hip belt support heavier loads, making it ideal for long-haul trips, digital nomads, and travelers who spend long hours walking between terminals or cities.
Key specs
Weight 1.55 kg
Capacity 40 litres
Design Front-loading suitcase style
Material Waterproof sailcloth with YKK zippers
Water resistance Water resistant
Laptop sleeve Fits 15-inch device
Extra features Height-adjustable suspension, hip belt pockets, two water bottle holders
How to Choose the Best Backpack for Your Needs
What Size Backpack Should You Get?
- 40L – Best for short trips, carry-on travel, and minimal packing.
- 50-60L – Ideal for backpacking trips that require a bit more gear.
- 70L+ – Great for long-term travel, trekking, and carrying heavier loads.
Why Choose a 40L Backpack?
A 40L backpack is the perfect middle ground between lightweight travel and practical functionality. It’s large enough to fit all your essentials for a trip. Lasting anywhere from a weekend getaway to a few weeks, yet compact enough to meet most airline carry-on requirements. This makes it an excellent choice for travellers who prefer to avoid checked luggage and want to move around freely without being weighed down by bulky gear. We would suggest this size if you’re backpacking through Europe or taking a trip to tropical destinations. Even when heading off on an outdoor adventure, a 40L pack ensures you stay mobile without sacrificing comfort.
Another major advantage of the best men’s 40L backpacks and women’s 40L backpacks is their versatility. Unlike larger 60-70L packs, which can become a bit tiring to carry around when navigating crowded streets, hopping on public transport, or fitting into hostel lockers, a 40L pack allows for more agility and ease of movement. Many models come with smart organization features such as laptop compartments. As well as hidden security pockets and front-loading designs that make packing and accessing your items simple. If you prefer minimalist travel, a 40L backpack encourages you to pack efficiently while still having enough room for essentials like clothing, toiletries, and tech gear.
What Type of Backpack Should I Choose?
Choosing the right backpack depends on how and where you plan to travel. There are backpacking backpacks, travel backpacks, and trekking backpacks, each designed for different purposes. If your trip involves multiple destinations, including city breaks, flights, and train rides, a travel backpack with a front-loading suitcase-style opening is a great option. These backpacks are designed for organization and ease of access, making them ideal for urban trips and for digital nomads.
On the other hand, if your journey involves hiking, camping, or multi-day treks, a trekking backpack with adjustable suspension, padded hip belts, and ergonomic weight distribution is a better fit. Trekking backpacks are built to withstand rough terrain and heavy loads, with features like hydration bladder compatibility, gear loops, and rain covers.
What’s the Difference Between a Backpack for Travel and Trekking?
The key difference between a travel backpack and a trekking backpack lies in their design and functions. Travel backpacks are built with easy access, organization, and security in mind. Many of them open like a suitcase rather than a traditional top-loading backpack, making it easier to pack and retrieve your belongings and repack. They often include lockable zippers, padded laptop compartments, and sleek designs that allow them to blend in while traveling through cities and airports. Travel backpacks are best suited for people who move between urban and rural areas and need a pack that keeps their gear accessible. If you travel with your laptop, this is a good option.
Trekking backpacks, on the other hand, are built for the outdoors. They focus on comfort, weight distribution, and durability, often featuring adjustable harnesses, hip belts, and ventilation systems to keep you comfortable on long hikes. These backpacks usually have top-loading access, meaning you’ll need to pack strategically to reach items at the bottom. Many trekking backpacks also have external attachment points for gear, such as trekking poles, ice axes, or sleeping bags. If you’re planning a multi-day hike or wild camping trip, a trekking backpack is essential for carrying heavy loads comfortably.
Key Features to Look For
Comfort & Fit – Adjustable shoulder straps, hip belts, and ventilated back panels make a huge difference.
Weight & Durability – Lightweight materials without compromising on durability.
Storage & Organization – Multiple compartments, laptop sleeves, and external pockets.
Weather Resistance – Water-resistant materials or a built-in rain cover for extra protection.
FAQs: Best Backpacks
Which Backpack is Best for Carry-On Travel?
Any 40L backpack is good for carry-on travel; however, make sure to check with your airline provider for specific dimensions.
Can You Wash a Backpack?
Most backpacks can be spot cleaned with warm water and mild soap. Always check manufacturer guidelines before machine washing.
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